Two words: OPRAH WINFREY

I’ll pause a couple of moments while you collect yourself… pause… pause…

I believe I just watched one of America’s most influential personalities of pop culture grab the mantle of optimism, the one claimed by winners of most presidential elections, and place it squarely in the hands of Barack Obama. It is the same mantle claimed by Ronald Reagan when he spoke of the “shining city on the hill.” It is a message of hope that tends to capture the imagination of the electorate and inspires groundswells of support. One that truly resonates with the average American, but is so elusive to many wannabe political leaders. In short, it is a message that makes the petty partisan politics seem… small.

I know very little about Democratic politics. I have seen very few episodes of the Oprah Winfrey show. I am not a supporter of Barack Obama. He is far too inexperienced to be considered for Commander-in-Chief and far too liberal to be acceptable under nearly any circumstances. However, I find Hillary Clinton revolting, John Edwards seems like a clown, and Dennis Kucinich is probably from outer space.

But I do know when I am watching something that could have a powerful impact. In speaking on behalf of Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey spoke with eloquence, genuine optimism, and passion. It was a powerful endorsement that rose above the typical negotiated arrangement we see between players in the political arena. Of course, it soared above the coveted endorsements of a Sean Penn or Barbara Streisand.

I don’t know if Obama and Winfrey can overcome the disciplined Clinton machine. Maybe Clinton can simply run out the clock and capture the Democratic nomination. Regardless, I think Clinton is in trouble. And if Hillary is in trouble — as one of the most polarizing and off-putting figures in American politics who offers the Republicans their very best chances for winning in ‘08 — then the Republicans may also be in trouble.

… but I’m still optimistic.